Publication:

Students’ opinions on the prevailing and innovative methods in medical education technology and changes recommended

Background Medical education technology has evolved greatly and it is essential to keep abreast of the recent techniques to keep the students focussed in the classroom. It is also necessary to receive feedback and input from the students regarding our teaching methodologies. Our aim was to learn from the learners about their opinion regarding the current teaching methodology.

Methods 172 students belonging to two batches participated in the study.  79.83% of the students were satisfied with the current system. A questionnaire was prepared with 23 questions covering the current methodology, innovations, learning methods and faculty qualities.

Results 77.70% of the students opined that the present system of medical teaching in pharmacology was satisfactory. 40% of the students thought that interactive sessions are desirable. 52.8% students said that was that seminars can be fun once in a while with 21.35% saying that only the group leaders benefit from seminars. 60.8% said bedside teaching sessions were interesting and useful. 52.67% students thought that problem-based learning (PBL) could be interesting and 21.5% thought it is essential.

Conclusions The survey reveals that the students are satisfied with the current system on the whole. However they require changes in some areas like lectures and seminars. They appear willing and enthusiastic to accept new concepts in teaching. Hence, newer teaching-learning methodologies should be tried and adopted for better classroom results.